Rochdale trader named as one of most influential people in retail

Paul Turner-Mitchell

A Rochdale town centre business owner is celebrating after being named in the annual Powerlist of the 100 most influential people in fashion.

Paul Turner-Mitchell, co-owner of 25Ten boutique on Yorkshire Street, said he was stunned to make the list, which was unveiled at an exclusive star studded party at Swarovski Crystallized in London.

The list also featured the bosses of Selfridges, John Lewis and Harrods, as well as Mary Portas, the Duchess of Cambridge and the co-founder of Twitter.

Appearing at number 97, Mr Turner-Mitchell was praised for his vigorous campaigning on behalf of the independent retail sector.

Mr Turner-Mitchell said: “I’m thrilled to make it on this list and be in such powerful and creative company.

“It’s a real honour for me but the real significance is for independents as a whole.

“It’s been a difficult year on the high street but creative and bold independents are needed more than ever in the current climate.

“I'd like to see more independents in the list next year and I'll carry on doing all I can to keep making the case for a more diverse and distinctive high street.”

Commenting on his inclusion, Ana Santi who chaired the panel, said: “Rochdale doesn’t exactly conjure up a glamorous image, but that hasn’t stopped Paul Turner-Mitchell and his wife Kelly crusading to keep the local independents and boutiques alive, despite it being one of the hardest-hit towns in the economic downturn.

“It’s Paul’s can-do no nonsense attitude that has established himself as the UK’s most active and leading voices for independents culminating in his entry to this year’s list.”